Mannheim Steamroller Christmas

The alias of composer Chip Davis, Mannheim Steamroller was among the pioneers of neo-classical electronic music, emerging as one of the driving forces behind the new age phenomenon. After his independently released 1974 debut Fresh Aire became a hit in the audiophile world, Davis spent the next decade expanding his brand. 1984’s massively popular Mannheim Steamroller Christmas was the release that broke Davis’ project into the mainstream and subsequent holiday-themed releases and annual tours ensured that Mannheim Steamroller would remain a perennial Yuletide staple well into the 21st century. In addition to the Fresh Aire and Christmas series are albums devoted to the natural world and even a set of Halloween collections.

Davis soon entered the studio to begin recording what he dubbed “18th century classical rock” — classical music performed on electric bass and synthesizers. He titled the resulting album Fresh Aire, and when no label would touch it, he founded his own company, American Gramaphone, in 1974, creating a fictitious band named Mannheim Steamroller to better promote the project. Davis initially marketed Fresh Aire to stereo show rooms, where his state-of-the-art sound proved ideal for demonstrating home stereo equipment; the LP became a smash hit among audiophiles, and a series of popular Fresh Aire sequels followed in the years to come.

In 1984, Davis issued Mannheim Steamroller Christmas, which shocked onlookers by selling over five million copies on the strength of a Top 40 Adult Contemporary rendition of “Deck the Halls.” It was followed four years later by A Fresh Aire Christmas. Along with the orchestra’s annual holiday tours, Davis has also written five children’s books and continues to produce music and has expanded the Mannheim Steamroller franchise with a line of apparel, food, gifts, and other products.